Orencia

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DRUG DESCRIPTION

ORENCIA® (abatacept) is a soluble fusion protein that consists of the
extracellular domain of human cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen 4
(CTLA-4) linked to the modified Fc (hinge, CH2, and CH3 domains) portion of
human immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1). Abatacept is produced by recombinant DNA
technology in a mammalian cell expression system. The apparent molecular weight
of abatacept is 92 kilodaltons.

ORENCIA lyophilized powder for intravenous infusion is
supplied as a sterile, white, preservative-free, lyophilized powder for
intravenous administration. Following reconstitution of the lyophilized powder
with 10 mL of Sterile Water for Injection, USP, the solution of ORENCIA is
clear, colorless to pale yellow, with a pH range of 7.2 to 7.8. Each single-use
vial of ORENCIA provides 250 mg abatacept, maltose (500 mg), monobasic sodium
phosphate (17.2 mg), and sodium chloride (14.6 mg) for administration.

What are the possible side effects of abatacept (Orencia)?

Some people receiving an abatacept injection have had a reaction to the infusion (when the medicine is injected into the vein). Tell your caregiver right away if you feel dizzy, light-headed, itchy, or have a severe headache or trouble breathing within 1 hour after receiving the injection.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Serious infections may occur during treatment with abatacept. Stop using abatacept and call your doctor right away if you have...

What are the precautions when taking abatacept (Orencia)?

Before using abatacept, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.